US dispatches Abrams tanks to aid Ukraine: M1A1 model spotted at Avdiivka front lines
5 February 2024 16:41, updated: 7 March 2024 09:16
In January 2023, the US Department of Defense announced that 31 M1A2 Abrams tanks were to be dispatched to Ukraine. Initially, the intention was for the United States to acquire fresh M1A2 Abrams tanks using funds provided by the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative.
In March, the Pentagon chose to shift its strategy, opting instead to include renovated M1A1 Abrams tanks from US stockpiles, a move that led to a substantial reduction in delivery time. Pentagon Press Secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder reassured at the time that the M1A1 variant due for Kiev will be of "very similar capabilities" as the M1A2.
Near the Avdiivka front lines (or possibly on them), the M1A1 SA Abrams tank being used by the 47th Mechanised Brigade has now been noted.
It's worth mentioning that in May, Ukrainian soldiers began their training on American Abrams tanks at the military range in Bavarian Grafenwoehr. In total, approximately 200 soldiers from the Ukrainian operational forces were trained in tank operation and tactics, and also received medical training.
What tanks has Ukraine received?
The M1A1 Abrams is the most dated version of the Abrams in use by the US Army, being an improvement on the basic M1 Abrams tank. The first M1A1 General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) tank was manufactured in 1985. This tank model varies from its predecessor with an improved suspension, modified gearbox, advanced armour, and a redesigned turret mount.
As per the Army Recognition website, a total of 4796 M1A1 tanks have been built for the US Army, and an additional 221 for the US Marine Corps, with 880 co-produced with Egypt.
